Trump impeachment: Senate falls short of majority needed to convict

[MenInG]

The debates have begun...

===

Speaker Pelosi begins the debate

Nancy Pelosi, who is the speaker of the House, is kicking off the formal debate in Congress.

She says that Mr Trump has "repeatedly lied" about the outcome of last November's election and sowed "self-serving doubt", adding he is a "clear and present danger to the country we all know and love".

 

[KingKhanWC]

Trump has one week left in office.

This is an attempt to ensure he is not able to run for office again in 4 years time.

A dangerous move by the Democrats, as this will cause much more divide , more violence and hatred between people in America. Trump had over 75 million votes, you cant alienate all those people and expect a cohesive society.

Bad times for America.

 

[The Viper]

Pelosi calls Trump 'clear and present danger'

Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi spoke as the debate on impeachment begins.

"We hold the power and bear the responsibility," she says, harkening back to Abraham Lincoln's words.

"We know that the president of the US incited this insurrection, this armed rebellion against our common country. He must go. He is a clear and present danger to the nation that we all love."

"The president must be convicted by the Senate that will ensure the Republic will be safe from this man who is so resolutely determined to tear down the things we hold dear and that hold us together," she says.

Pelosi adds that it breaks her heart to be at yet another impeachment session.

"It should break your heart. It should break all of our hearts."

She says this move is "not motivated by partisanship".

"I stand before you as an officer of the Constitution, as a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a daughter - a daughter whose father proudly served in this Congress."

She asks lawmakers for some soul searching. "Is the president's war on democracy in keeping with the Constitution?"

Pelosi concludes: "My fellow Americans, we cannot escape history. Let us fulfill our duty and honour the trust of our nation."

 

[The Viper]

Jim Jordan: Trump victim of 'cancel culture'

Republican lawmaker Jim Jordan has defended the president’s record, mentioning an improving economy, the appointment of three new conservative Supreme Court judges, and the movement of the US embassy to Jerusalem.

But he warned of the president being a victim of "cancel culture".

“It’s always been about getting the president no matter what. An obsession. An obsession that is about cancelling the president and anyone that disagrees,” he said.

He continued: “It won’t just be Republicans that will be cancelled. Cancel culture will come for us all. America is a great country, the greatest country ever.”

"The attack on the First Amendment has to stop".

 

[Bigboii]

Mitch Mcconnell is saying that he may agree to vote on impeachment

 

[KingKhanWC]

Trump impeached.

He will prob be thrown out of office next week, days before his tenure ends.

Early holiday to the golf resort?

Expect some sort of violent backlash before Biden becomes the next puppet.

 

[JaDed]

Mitch Mcconnell is saying that he may agree to vote on impeachment

I hated him before the TRUMP saga.. him and pence seem decent now- lol

 

[Robert]

Trump has one week left in office.

This is an attempt to ensure he is not able to run for office again in 4 years time.

A dangerous move by the Democrats, as this will cause much more divide , more violence and hatred between people in America. Trump had over 75 million votes, you cant alienate all those people and expect a cohesive society.

Bad times for America.

Neither should good government fail to punish someone for malfeasance because he is popular.

He fomented an uprising again his own government. He should be in jail as well as impeached.

The impeachment has been approved by the House, but the Senate will not uphold it. They are craven, interested in their own careers rather than justice.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Neither should good government fail to punish someone for malfeasance because he is popular.

He fomented an uprising again his own government. He should be in jail as well as impeached.

The impeachment has been approved by the House, but the Senate will not uphold it. They are craven, interested in their own careers rather than justice.

A few days is a long time , there will be pressure put on those to vote or they are somehow be sympathetic towards traitors of democracy amongst other nonsense.

Trump didnt call for an uprising, he called for protests.

As I mentioned, this is only to ensure he is not able to run again because Biden will bring the US on the verge of bankruptcy, many more jobs will go, violence will be normal on the streets between BLM and Trump supporters, USA will be a laughing stock and other nations such as China will become the biggest economic power and joined with Russia near being the biggest military powers. Trump had 75 million votes, this could increase in 4 years time due to what I have mentioned.

Either way, the US has become a laughing stock in the world, nobody takes them serioulsy as the greatest democracy and many nations are happy to see such decline and amusement.

 

[Saj]

President Donald Trump has been impeached for a historic second time after the House of Representatives secured enough votes to charge him.

A total of 10 Republicans voted against their party and Donald Trump, with the final result being 232 votes to impeach, and 197 against.

He is the first US president to be impeached twice, after he was previously charged over his calls with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Mr Trump has been charged with inciting an insurrection following the deadly riots at the US Capitol on 6 January.

 

[Stewie]

A few days is a long time , there will be pressure put on those to vote or they are somehow be sympathetic towards traitors of democracy amongst other nonsense.

Trump didnt call for an uprising, he called for protests.

As I mentioned, this is only to ensure he is not able to run again because Biden will bring the US on the verge of bankruptcy, many more jobs will go, violence will be normal on the streets between BLM and Trump supporters, USA will be a laughing stock and other nations such as China will become the biggest economic power and joined with Russia near being the biggest military powers. Trump had 75 million votes, this could increase in 4 years time due to what I have mentioned.

Either way, the US has become a laughing stock in the world, nobody takes them serioulsy as the greatest democracy and many nations are happy to see such decline and amusement.

That’s a fairly drastic stance from a few days ago when you kept harping about how you were neutral and didn’t have any dog in the fight when it comes to American politics. Reading your posts it’s quite clear now who your favorites are and how you are no longer encouraging a debate but actually expressing strong views on the subject.

Wonder what changed!! ��

 

[Pakpak]

The guy is almost bankrupt, he had used $8 million only out of the $80 million he raised via funding, all his crying is to save him from all the bankruptcy cases coming. He's got a $500 million dollar loan that's about to mature and he's taken a lot of private loans as well, he's angling for his moronic supporters to give him more $$$$$$$$ funding. Good luck

 

[Stewie]

The guy is almost bankrupt, he had used $8 million only out of the $80 million he raised via funding, all his crying is to save him from all the bankruptcy cases coming. He's got a $500 million dollar loan that's about to mature and he's taken a lot of private loans as well, he's angling for his moronic supporters to give him more $$$$$$$$ funding. Good luck

Not many people are willing to accept this truth

 

[KingKhanWC]

That’s a fairly drastic stance from a few days ago when you kept harping about how you were neutral and didn’t have any dog in the fight when it comes to American politics. Reading your posts it’s quite clear now who your favorites are and how you are no longer encouraging a debate but actually expressing strong views on the subject.

Wonder what changed!! ��

I am neutral and Im only stating what Im seeing from a wider bigger picture perspective. In the recent days seeing high level Republicans changing their tune due to pressure of being sympathetic to sedition and insurrection its now clear they dont want Trump to run in 2024. It makes sense as it could be a few days but more likely his trial will take place after he's left office. There is no other reason for carrying this on unless you want to ensure Trump doesnt run again.

 

[Robert]

The guy is almost bankrupt, he had used $8 million only out of the $80 million he raised via funding, all his crying is to save him from all the bankruptcy cases coming. He's got a $500 million dollar loan that's about to mature and he's taken a lot of private loans as well, he's angling for his moronic supporters to give him more $$$$$$$$ funding. Good luck

He owes about $1.5B but has $3B assets so I think he will be ok.

Going forward - the Senate will have fifty Senators for each party, with Kamala holding the casting vote in a tie. But for the impeachment to be upheld there must be a 67/33 split. All fifty Dems will vote to uphold, so neec 17 of 50 Republicans to vote against party lines. Seems unlikely.

 

[Pakpak]

He owes about $1.5B but has $3B assets so I think he will be ok.

Going forward - the Senate will have fifty Senators for each party, with Kamala holding the casting vote in a tie. But for the impeachment to be upheld there must be a 67/33 split. All fifty Dems will vote to uphold, so neec 17 of 50 Republicans to vote against party lines. Seems unlikely.

His net worth is 2.1 billion but not including all the 100s of millions of liabilities

 

[Nadeemp]

Trump has one week left in office.

This is an attempt to ensure he is not able to run for office again in 4 years time.

A dangerous move by the Democrats, as this will cause much more divide , more violence and hatred between people in America. Trump had over 75 million votes, you cant alienate all those people and expect a cohesive society.

Bad times for America.

He has to me impeached in senate for that to happern

 

[Stewie]

I am neutral and Im only stating what Im seeing from a wider bigger picture perspective. In the recent days seeing high level Republicans changing their tune due to pressure of being sympathetic to sedition and insurrection its now clear they dont want Trump to run in 2024. It makes sense as it could be a few days but more likely his trial will take place after he's left office. There is no other reason for carrying this on unless you want to ensure Trump doesnt run again.

You are a lot of things but neutral is not one of them. You have clear bias here favoring Trump and against anybody who is anti Trump. You are also anti American establishment. You claim Trump didn’t incite anything but you seem to be only a voice out of trump supporters who are saying that. Even most republicans and of course neutrals have analyzed his speech and found him guilty of inciting the violence.

A word of advice.. don’t lie to others or yourself. Embrace who you are. Come out of the closet.
You are a Trump supporter. You will feel a lot better once you admit it. And there is no harm in saying it. It won’t make you any less of a human being. We are all entitled to our opinions.

Just saying...

 

[Nadeemp]

He owes about $1.5B but has $3B assets so I think he will be ok.

Going forward - the Senate will have fifty Senators for each party, with Kamala holding the casting vote in a tie. But for the impeachment to be upheld there must be a 67/33 split. All fifty Dems will vote to uphold, so neec 17 of 50 Republicans to vote against party lines. Seems unlikely.

i think you need 51 for impeachement

 

[Nadeemp]

i think you need 51 for impeachement

sorry you are correct

 

[KingKhanWC]

You are a lot of things but neutral is not one of them. You have clear bias here favoring Trump and against anybody who is anti Trump. You are also anti American establishment. You claim Trump didn’t incite anything but you seem to be only a voice out of trump supporters who are saying that. Even most republicans and of course neutrals have analyzed his speech and found him guilty of inciting the violence.

A word of advice.. don’t lie to others or yourself. Embrace who you are. Come out of the closet.
You are a Trump supporter. You will feel a lot better once you admit it. And there is no harm in saying it. It won’t make you any less of a human being. We are all entitled to our opinions.

Just saying...

lol. Too much CNN. Again lets leave aside what or who I am. If I comment on you as a person, you may be offended like Palosi.

I dont have anything to lose unlike those politicians, they will be villified, demonised for the rest of their careers for continuing to stand by Trump. Ive read his quotes, there is no incitment to violence but to protest strongly, unless you can show me some?

 

[IMMY69]

He owes about $1.5B but has $3B assets so I think he will be ok.

Going forward - the Senate will have fifty Senators for each party, with Kamala holding the casting vote in a tie. But for the impeachment to be upheld there must be a 67/33 split. All fifty Dems will vote to uphold, so neec 17 of 50 Republicans to vote against party lines. Seems unlikely.

The $3b assets is not the only thing the banks look at.
There will be rental income covenants that apply too.

With his portfolio including hotels, gold courses and offices, all these will have suffered badly during the Pandemic...

For certain commercial properties such as the ones I mentioned the banks will look for a far higher loan to value, probably 60pct or maybe even higher.

I suspect if the bank loans don't get him then some of the private loans he has will.

 

[Stewie]

lol. Too much CNN. Again lets leave aside what or who I am. If I comment on you as a person, you may be offended like Palosi.

I dont have anything to lose unlike those politicians, they will be villified, demonised for the rest of their careers for continuing to stand by Trump. Ive read his quotes, there is no incitment to violence but to protest strongly, unless you can show me some?

Well fortunately people who know far more and far better than you do on this matter disagree with you, even 10 of the Republican lawmakers from his party, former US presidential candidate Romney, a bunch of Senators from his own party, etc who have made their views known quite clearly. You pretend to be neutral but what does it say when people from his own party are agreeing to impeach him and agreed with the charge?

Like I said, you are entitled to your opinion, not going to stop you from it but at this point your opinion does not rest with the neutrals but hardcore trump supporters.

Here is your own BBC making a case for what he said did result in the violence:

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-55640437

 

[Technics 1210]

Impeached twice yet still in office. LOL! Purley ceremonial.

The looney left are the real danger to society. They support democracy only when they win; they support free speech if they agree with an opinion otherwise support censorship; and most of all they will support and endorse domestic terrorists groups such as BLM who carry out violence in the name of fame. The 5th Reich in a nut shell.

At least the last 4 years has revealed the double standards of the looney left both in the UK and USA. I guess every cloud has a silver lining.

Further division and destruction of Amreeka coming right up.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Well fortunately people who know far more and far better than you do on this matter disagree with you, even 10 of the Republican lawmakers from his party, former US presidential candidate Romney, a bunch of Senators from his own party, etc who have made their views known quite clearly. You pretend to be neutral but what does it say when people from his own party are agreeing to impeach him and agreed with the charge?

Like I said, you are entitled to your opinion, not going to stop you from it but at this point your opinion does not rest with the neutrals but hardcore trump supporters.

Here is your own BBC making a case for what he said did result in the violence:

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-55640437

Ive explained why Senators and his party members are going against him, they want to save their career. I dont have any political career in the USA.

Its not my BBC, I think the channel is not democratic, you are forced to pay for it. None of those quotes amount to incitment of violence or inserrecution to me. Which quote to you does or do they all?

 

[KingKhanWC]

Impeached twice yet still in office. LOL! Purley ceremonial.

The looney left are the real danger to society. They support democracy only when they win; they support free speech if they agree with an opinion otherwise support censorship; and most of all they will support and endorse domestic terrorists groups such as BLM who carry out violence in the name of fame. The 5th Reich in a nut shell.

At least the last 4 years has revealed the double standards of the looney left both in the UK and USA. I guess every cloud has a silver lining.

Further division and destruction of Amreeka coming right up.

Nancy Polosi also said the election Trump won was a fraud, yet she became even stronger in politics.

These people are really scared of the 75+ million people who voted for Trump. Its an attack on them also, trying to silence them. They will be made to feel as evil, disloyal for being Trump supporters.

In the UK we have Keir Starmer and Bojo who are the same, both work for the same agendas, just different rhetotic now and again. This is a false and a joke of a democracy. USA had a more genuine democracy with Trump being different to Biden or Obama. People got to choose a different way to run the country, whether you agree with either side. Now they want to US to become like the UK, a false, deceptive democracy where both sides are just different cheeks on the same backside. Americans should be upset about whats going on now but many seem to unware.

 

[Technics 1210]

Nancy Polosi also said the election Trump won was a fraud, yet she became even stronger in politics.

These people are really scared of the 75+ million people who voted for Trump. Its an attack on them also, trying to silence them. They will be made to feel as evil, disloyal for being Trump supporters.

In the UK we have Keir Starmer and Bojo who are the same, both work for the same agendas, just different rhetotic now and again. This is a false and a joke of a democracy. USA had a more genuine democracy with Trump being different to Biden or Obama. People got to choose a different way to run the country, whether you agree with either side. Now they want to US to become like the UK, a false, deceptive democracy where both sides are just different cheeks on the same backside. Americans should be upset about whats going on now but many seem to unware.

So glad Brexit trumped the one sided opinions of citizens who entered the UK via the backdoor known as mainland Europe. Their opinion on the EU was and is, always biased and ignorant which is why Remain lost.

We don't live in a free speaking democratic West anymore. No way, not after shenanigans of the looney left since 2016 who spent day and night trying to overturn democracy on nothing but lies, and conjecture.

75M Trump supporters, oops, 'racists' represent an ideology now. This include Blacks, Whites, Asians, Men, Women, Latinos, you name it. The acts of the LL today, have made Trump stronger. Don't worry though, these same lot blaming Trump, will tomorrow blame Biden, or a Woman, Harris, or knowing the hypocrisy they display, blame Trump again.

The left have never achieved anything. Not one succesful term in office. Their policies are an abject failure - yet they weep for the rewards of capitalism.

Democracy is dead. Free speech is dead. Critical thinking is dead.

 

[Stewie]

Ive explained why Senators and his party members are going against him, they want to save their career. I dont have any political career in the USA.

Its not my BBC, I think the channel is not democratic, you are forced to pay for it. None of those quotes amount to incitment of violence or inserrecution to me. Which quote to you does or do they all?

That’s straight from trump supporter play book, another piece of evidence you are not neutral. If they are from the same party as you but disagreeing, it means they have ulterior motives and not speaking their con science. That’s how trump has thrown the credibility of his opponents or dissenters under the bus. That’s the definition of fascism by the way.

These people who are disagreeing with trump and voted to impeach him, they have basically jeopardized their political careers and didn’t vote against trump to help their careers. They are all voted in by the 70 million trump supporters. You think their constituents are cheering them on while they vote against their party? Well maybe some, hopefully, do ..

Your take on how politics works is very very different from how it is in real life. Did you see the video of Lindsey graham getting absolutely pulverized at the airport by verbal abuse from trump supporters? Just because he didn’t agree with incitement?

By the way the link I shared, has a very clear analysis of trumps speech by an expert, only if you had taken the time to read it all.

 

[KingKhanWC]

That’s straight from trump supporter play book, another piece of evidence you are not neutral. If they are from the same party as you but disagreeing, it means they have ulterior motives and not speaking their con science. That’s how trump has thrown the credibility of his opponents or dissenters under the bus. That’s the definition of fascism by the way.

These people who are disagreeing with trump and voted to impeach him, they have basically jeopardized their political careers and didn’t vote against trump to help their careers. They are all voted in by the 70 million trump supporters. You think their constituents are cheering them on while they vote against their party? Well maybe some, hopefully, do ..

Your take on how politics works is very very different from how it is in real life. Did you see the video of Lindsey graham getting absolutely pulverized at the airport by verbal abuse from trump supporters? Just because he didn’t agree with incitement?

By the way the link I shared, has a very clear analysis of trumps speech by an expert, only if you had taken the time to read it all.

lol. How can I take a side when my clear wants from the USA is to stay out of other peoples land. I dont care if the US is doing great or turns into a Bombay Slum. I dont live there , have no wishes to live there or even holiday. So put your FBI cap down and address the points.

Trump politicians have been scared to vote against him as this riot is being seen as high crimes, meaning high treason. We have the likes of Forbes saying it will stop dealing with companies if they employ Trumps old mates. They need to feed their families so of course will do whats right for them personally in the end.

Supporters on both sides can be clowns and looneys, its Amreeka not civilised Switz.

So not a single quote from Trump which incites violence?

Never mind.

 

[Nadeemp]

lol. How can I take a side when my clear wants from the USA is to stay out of other peoples land. I dont care if the US is doing great or turns into a Bombay Slum. I dont live there , have no wishes to live there or even holiday. So put your FBI cap down and address the points.

Trump politicians have been scared to vote against him as this riot is being seen as high crimes, meaning high treason. We have the likes of Forbes saying it will stop dealing with companies if they employ Trumps old mates. They need to feed their families so of course will do whats right for them personally in the end.

Supporters on both sides can be clowns and looneys, its Amreeka not civilised Switz.

So not a single quote from Trump which incites violence?

Never mind.

I dont live there , have no wishes to live there or even holiday.
is this like the same style as you "boycott "french products?

 

[Stewie]

I dont live there , have no wishes to live there or even holiday.
is this like the same style as you "boycott "french products?

It’s pure and simple hatred of America and everything it stands for with some of these people.. in the guise of supporting American conservatism. They claim to be Muslims but refuse to acknowledge the irreparable damage trump admin has caused to Muslims including the Palestinian cause.
To borrow Alfred’s line from the Dark Knight “... they just want to watch the world burn”

 

[Last Monetarist]

Trump continues to be made a scapegoat for all of America's ills. The guy has been excoriatingly humiliated and censored by most people in the establishment due mainly to his own incompetence and there are still witless folks carrying on with calling him a tyrant.

People don't understand that Trump merely leveraged the unrest fermenting in American society, he's not the cause. The rabid focus on him from moronic politicians will only serve to polarize and antagonize further.

 

[Bigboii]

I hated him before the TRUMP saga.. him and pence seem decent now- lol

I kinda like Pence not gonna lie (although a bit too ott with his conservative values)

But Mitch is someone that should be despised by any normal human being...
Cause he is the most corrupt politician in Washington (I have no problem with corruption per say but don't give the holier than attitude that you're doing all of it to protect economy or you're the only "grown up" in the room, people know how/why he became a multi millionaire with "174,000" salary) - corporate corruption

Not to forget his antics, seems like he is getting paid to do nothing

What's happening in US rn is that Republican party is moving towards conservativism and moving away from Libertarianism

It can be bad or good depending on what people think is important for US

 

[MenInG]

The US House of Representatives has impeached President Donald Trump for "incitement of insurrection" at last week's Capitol riot.

Ten Republicans sided with Democrats to impeach the president by 232-197.

But his trial in the Senate will not happen until after Joe Biden, a Democrat, is inaugurated as the new US president next week.

Mr Trump, a Republican, is the first president in US history to be impeached twice.

The Democratic-controlled House voted on Wednesday after two hours of impassioned debate as armed National Guard troops kept watch inside and outside the Capitol.

The FBI has warned of possible armed protests planned for Washington DC and all 50 US state capitals ahead of Mr Biden's inauguration on 20 January.

In a video released after the vote in Congress, Mr Trump called on his followers to remain peaceful, without mentioning his impeachment. "Violence and vandalism have no place in our country... No true supporter of mine would ever endorse political violence," he said, striking a sombre and conciliatory tone.

What was Trump charged with?

Impeachment charges are political, not criminal. The president was accused by Congress of inciting the storming of the Capitol with a speech on 6 January to a rally outside the White House.

He urged his supporters to "peacefully and patriotically" make their voices heard, but also to "fight like hell" against an election that he falsely told them had been stolen.

Following Mr Trump's remarks, his supporters broke into the Capitol, forcing lawmakers to suspend certification of election results and take shelter. The building was placed on lockdown and five people died in the melee.

The article of impeachment stated that Mr Trump "repeatedly issued false statements asserting that the presidential election results were fraudulent and should not be accepted".

It says he then repeated these claims and "wilfully made statements to the crowd that encouraged and foreseeably resulted in lawless action at the Capitol", leading to the violence and loss of life.

"President Trump gravely endangered the security of the United States and its institutions of government, threatened the integrity of the democratic system, interfered with the peaceful transition of power, and imperilled a coequal branch of government."

Last week, 139 Republicans voted against accepting the result of the 2020 election and Mr Trump's defeat.

What did lawmakers say during the debate?
Members of Congress made statements for and against the vote in the same chamber where they hid under chairs and donned gas masks as rioters tried to force their way inside last week.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said on the House floor: "The president of the United States incited this insurrection, this armed rebellion against our common country.

"He must go. He is a clear and present danger to the nation that we all love."

Democratic congressman Julian Castro called Mr Trump "the most dangerous man to ever occupy the Oval Office".

Most Republicans did not seek to defend Mr Trump's rhetoric, instead arguing that the impeachment had bypassed the customary hearings and calling on Democrats to drop it for the sake of national unity.

"Impeaching the president in such a short time frame would be a mistake," said Kevin McCarthy, the House's top Republican.

"That doesn't mean the president's free from fault. The president bears responsibility for Wednesday's attack on Congress by mob rioters."

Jim Jordan, an Ohio Republican, accused Democrats of recklessly dividing the country to pursue a political vendetta.

"This is about getting the president of the United States," said Mr Jordan. "It's always been about getting the president, no matter what. It's an obsession."

Among members of the president's party who voted to impeach him was the third-ranking House Republican, Liz Cheney.

The Wyoming representative, who is the daughter of former Vice-President Dick Cheney, said of the Capitol riot that "there has never been a greater betrayal by a president".

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-55656385

 

[Underarmbowl]

I can’t believe I came onto a Pakistani cricket site and read such an informed comment. Well done. The dems and the left are pure evil. It’s far bigger than Trump they want a one party system, hard to see another republican getting it again at least for a very long time.

The election was stolen 100% America is no longer free speech.

 

[Savak]

Trump, Trump, Trump. Biden is now the President elect and soon to be President elect but again the media is all Trump, Trump, Trump. This has been the story since 2016 and i don't see it ending after January 20 either

 

[Varun]

Trump, Trump, Trump. Biden is now the President elect and soon to be President elect but again the media is all Trump, Trump, Trump. This has been the story since 2016 and i don't see it ending after January 20 either

Yeah, nobody is talking about Biden at all. There are no articles about how the new Presidency is going to be, whether he is an inspirational leader, his foreign policy or economy tactics, etc.

Proves that he got into power only because of an anti-Trump vote. And only narrowly at that.

 

[Robert]

sorry you are correct

2/3 majority in the Senate needed.

Five GOP Senators will vote to uphold, two more are wavering. That makes maybe 57/43 so the charge will fail, but this is about ruining Trump’s legacy and discrediting the American fascism he has stoked up.

It will also force the GOP Senators to show their hands - whether they are for the American ideal of Liberty, or they are craven enough to bow to the fascists.

 

[Robert]

Trump, Trump, Trump. Biden is now the President elect and soon to be President elect but again the media is all Trump, Trump, Trump. This has been the story since 2016 and i don't see it ending after January 20 either

Perhaps a good thing for Biden - he can advance progressive legislation without so much media scrutiny, as the COVID toll continues to climb.

Trump will not get the GOP nomination a second time, and faces serious financial difficulties. I thought he would set up a Trump TV channel and promote Ivanka for a WH run, but the last week has badly discredited him.

 

[Robert]

I can’t believe I came onto a Pakistani cricket site and read such an informed comment. Well done. The dems and the left are pure evil. It’s far bigger than Trump they want a one party system, hard to see another republican getting it again at least for a very long time.

The election was stolen 100% America is no longer free speech.

Oh dear. Sixty-six court cases suggesting electoral impropriety all failed. Congress authorised the Biden win, then the GOP-majority Senate and GOP Veep confirmed it.

How long can you carry on denying that the sun rose this morning because an orange man said it didn’t?

 

[Varun]

Do you folks think Trump is going to become a martyr in the eyes of his supporters because of this?

 

[Technics 1210]

Oh dear. Sixty-six court cases suggesting electoral impropriety all failed. Congress authorised the Biden win, then the GOP-majority Senate and GOP Veep confirmed it.

How long can you carry on denying that the sun rose this morning because an orange man said it didn’t?

Yet the same Congress authorised war against Iraq on the back of fake evidence, and continue to support troops in Iraq.

Congress has about much credibility as a chocolate teapot.

 

[Robert]

Yet the same Congress authorised war against Iraq on the back of fake evidence, and continue to support troops in Iraq.

Congress has about much credibility as a chocolate teapot.

The sixty-six courts didn’t authorise war.

This is another example of “but-they-did-it-too-Miss” thinking that I see so many times on PP. Nobody can ever take a moral stand because everyone is morally compromised. Nobody can ever aspire to do the right thing. It’s a philosophy of despair and the loam in which fascism takes root. Everyone is bad, so follow the one with the loudest voice.

 

[Robert]

Do you folks think Trump is going to become a martyr in the eyes of his supporters because of this?

Of course. There are still Southerners who believe in the Lost Cause of 1865. They were waving their Johnny Reb flags when they stormed the Capitol.

 

[IMMY69]

Do you folks think Trump is going to become a martyr in the eyes of his supporters because of this?

This is a serious question.
Have you or anyone else actually read up about Trump?

His history, his business failures and reasons as to how he goes about gaining support?

 

[Technics 1210]

The sixty-six courts didn’t authorise war.

This is another example of “but-they-did-it-too-Miss” thinking that I see so many times on PP. Nobody can ever take a moral stand because everyone is morally compromised. Nobody can ever aspire to do the right thing. It’s a philosophy of despair and the loam in which fascism takes root. Everyone is bad, so follow the one with the loudest voice.

I was talking about Congress, since you mentioned Congress authorised Biden win on lack of evidence from the courts. But hey, lack of evidence, fake evidence, didn't matter when Congress authorised war in Iraq.

Please stop pretending Trump was treated fairly since his inauguration when it's clear the establishment are as corrupt as the Russians and have been after him since day 1.

 

[Technics 1210]

Yeah, nobody is talking about Biden at all. There are no articles about how the new Presidency is going to be, whether he is an inspirational leader, his foreign policy or economy tactics, etc.

Proves that he got into power only because of an anti-Trump vote. And only narrowly at that.

Biden is a proven racist on record. Biden is a proven warmonger on record. Biden is a proven failure in his 40+ years in politics, even Obama tried to retire him. He's on video touching women inappropriately. So much more.

Biden's only achievement is beating Trump in an election, and that too was down to C19, not Biden's political acumen, cos he has none.

There's nothing much to report on Biden, if they did, he'd come out worse than Trump.

 

[Stewie]

Interesting to see how so many foreigners are interested in American politics and how so many of them seem to think they are experts of it compared to the Americans themselves. Haha.

So even others believe the election was stolen!
Interesting!

That’s what happens when a reality tv “star” and a fraud controls the narrative.

 

[IMMY69]

Interesting to see how so many foreigners are interested in American politics and how so many of them seem to think they are experts of it compared to the Americans themselves. Haha.

So even others believe the election was stolen!
Interesting!

That’s what happens when a reality tv “star” and a fraud controls the narrative.

The mind boggles..

https://www.forbes.com/sites/michae...does-he-always-end-up-on-top/?sh=174ac0e6117f

 

[Stewie]

Do you folks think Trump is going to become a martyr in the eyes of his supporters because of this?

It depends on how much time and energy his supporters have left to devote to his “cause”

The thing about American politics is it’s not like other countries where political upheaval keeps changing political directions. The Trumpism would have made a difference if the people were struggling to put food on the table and their rights were extremely marginalized. At the end of the day, Americans move on from this stuff. The way this country is, people are worked like dogs from 9-5, busy with sports on the weekends, and other activities. They don’t dwell on these things as much as say People in third world countries tend to.

Once covid goes away and things get back to normal next few months, trump will be quickly forgotten because people will rediscover life and freedom. I really don’t see these shocking Trumpism related events having too many long term after effects.

I know my view is probably minority because a lot of people say Trumpism is here to stay but I don’t agree with it. I think it will end up being a flash in the pan.. albeit a very bright one. But a flash in the pak nonetheless.

 

[Pakpak]

This is a serious question.
Have you or anyone else actually read up about Trump?

His history, his business failures and reasons as to how he goes about gaining support?

Esp British Pakistanis, Trump promoted people like Farage. Openly. Retweeted the racist Kate Hopkins and English Defence League countless times. He empowered racists in UK who came out of their shells to utter their trash against Muslims and Pakistanis in UK on a regular basis. The same Trump is absolutely worshipped in India and by Hindutva warriors worldwide, the same Trump is also worshipped by every scummy far right organisation. Trump is detestable as they come, I'd question the average Westerner supporting them but ethnic minorities supporting him...us ethnic minorities living in the West will have to face the rising bigotry and the racists who feel empowered by this *****.

 

[Stewie]

Esp British Pakistanis, Trump promoted people like Farage. Openly. Retweeted the racist Kate Hopkins and English Defence League countless times. He empowered racists in UK who came out of their shells to utter their trash against Muslims and Pakistanis in UK on a regular basis. The same Trump is absolutely worshipped in India and by Hindutva warriors worldwide, the same Trump is also worshipped by every scummy far right organisation. Trump is detestable as they come, I'd question the average Westerner supporting them but ethnic minorities supporting him...us ethnic minorities living in the West will have to face the rising bigotry and the racists who feel empowered by this *****.

You make an interesting point about his enabling of racist, anti muslim, anti pakistani politicians in the UK. Which makes it even more surprising and mind boggling to me how so many UK PPers seem like hard core trump fans. I don’t have to name them, you can see their vehement support for all things Trump here everyday.

What do you think is the reason behind it?

 

[observer1]

The only reason any Pakistani would vote/support Trump would be through a sense of schadenfreude or irony.

Ensuring a dimwit, selfish and reckless leader keeps the country subdued with domestic issues.

 

[MenInG]

Donald Trump has called for "no violence" ahead of what the FBI has warned are "armed protests" being planned at all 50 state capitals ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration - as removal vans were spotted outside the White Hous

 

[Stewie]

The reports are coming that his aides had to work real hard to get him to read a written statement on TV denouncing violence and anarchy in order to salvage the remaining days of his presidency.

Where were these comments and presidential attitude a few days ago when it was most needed? This is too little too late now when the damage has been done.

 

[GenericBrand]

You make an interesting point about his enabling of racist, anti muslim, anti pakistani politicians in the UK. Which makes it even more surprising and mind boggling to me how so many UK PPers seem like hard core trump fans. I don’t have to name them, you can see their vehement support for all things Trump here everyday.

What do you think is the reason behind it?

Seems like the 'hip' thing to do among the younger desis from what I have seen personally. Ironically enough these guys will be anti-Modi/India to suit their narrative

 

[KingKhanWC]

It’s pure and simple hatred of America and everything it stands for with some of these people.. in the guise of supporting American conservatism. They claim to be Muslims but refuse to acknowledge the irreparable damage trump admin has caused to Muslims including the Palestinian cause.
To borrow Alfred’s line from the Dark Knight “... they just want to watch the world burn”

CNN again.

I dont hate the land or the people but the governments and military who have/are the biggest terrorists in history. This is no different to millions in the US and billions around the world.

Democrats dont want Trump to run in 4 years and looks like he wont. Nothing much more on this subject.

 

[Technics 1210]

CNN again.

I dont hate the land or the people but the governments and military who have/are the biggest terrorists in history. This is no different to millions in the US and billions around the world.

Democrats dont want Trump to run in 4 years and looks like he wont. Nothing much more on this subject.

Love it. CNN again. Great line!

When dealing the looney left you are actually dealing with MS Media.

Where are the crticial thinkers who can think for themselves?

 

[KingKhanWC]

Love it. CNN again. Great line!

When dealing the looney left you are actually dealing with MS Media.

Where are the crticial thinkers who can think for themselves?

I see Wolf Blitzer's face each time I read some posts on here. If you dont agree with Bidens fake looney left you are either an American hater, racist or crazed supporter. If Trump is allowed to run again, he could well start his own independent party and still win the election. You will see so many hating Biden/Harris in 4 years time because the US economy will be in tatters.

 

[Robert]

I see Wolf Blitzer's face each time I read some posts on here. If you dont agree with Bidens fake looney leFt you are either an American hater, racist or crazed supporter. If Trump is allowed to run again, he could well start his own independent party and still win the election. You will see so many hating Biden/Harris in 4 years time because the US economy will be in tatters.

Errr, Biden is basically a One Nation Tory.

 

[MenInG]

The suspects in the Capitol riot are a varied group: they include a West Virginia lawmaker, a Florida firefighter and a left-wing activist from Utah.

It's been over a week since the Capitol Hill riot - how much progress has law enforcement made bringing the perpetrators to justice?

How many arrests so far?

More than 170 case files have been opened and 70 people charged so far, said Michael Sherwin, US Attorney for the District of Columbia.

He said officials are looking at "significant felony cases" tied to sedition and conspiracy.

FBI director Chris Wray said his investigators have identified a further 200 suspects "and FBI agents are coming to find you".

The Capitol police officer hailed as a 'hero'
A man allegedly seen in viral photos carrying a Confederate flag in the Capitol during the riots was charged on Thursday.

 

[Stewie]

Some of the posts on this thread are downright idiotic.

Just because you hate Trump and what he has done to the country, doesn’t make you a Biden supporter. For the sake of this discussion, I hope some people get this in their thick skulls. In fact the reason Biden got so many more votes is not an affirmation of Biden but more of an indictment of trump. There are A LOT of us who voted for him just go get Trump out of office (swing voters as well as disenfranchised Republican voters)
Why is that so hard to understand for some people?

 

[Technics 1210]

You couldn't make this up. Biden urged to pardon Trump to heal the nation! LOL

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/biden-urged-to-pardon-trump-and-heal-nation-jf9xc886w

 

[Technics 1210]

I see Wolf Blitzer's face each time I read some posts on here. If you dont agree with Bidens fake looney left you are either an American hater, racist or crazed supporter. If Trump is allowed to run again, he could well start his own independent party and still win the election. You will see so many hating Biden/Harris in 4 years time because the US economy will be in tatters.

Overnight there were 50M+ racists/facists when Trump won in 2016. 17.3M racist/facists when UK voted to leave the EU in 2016 - according to the LL.

Overnight!

Biden/Kamala will be the most hated pair of leaders in a year or two. Already Biden has announced a policy to help struggling/low income people of all races, except for Whites - because the LL will have you believe there's no such thing as low income/struggling white people in the USA! The LL are real racists/facists, and their leader, Biden!

 

[KingKhanWC]

Overnight there were 50M+ racists/facists when Trump won in 2016. 17.3M racist/facists when UK voted to leave the EU in 2016 - according to the LL.

Overnight!

Biden/Kamala will be the most hated pair of leaders in a year or two. Already Biden has announced a policy to help struggling/low income people of all races, except for Whites - because the LL will have you believe there's no such thing as low income/struggling white people in the USA! The LL are real racists/facists, and their leader, Biden!

It surely has to be some sort of stategy to break the US as a nation, already it's in decline as an economy, military power, all thats left is the social aspect.

Now they want this guy, who basically didt even attempt to stop the protesters to be given some sort of bravery medal. lol

Lawmakers want to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the Capitol Police officer who lured rioters away from the Senate chambers

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/01/15/...lice-congressional-gold-medal-trnd/index.html

 

[Robert]

It surely has to be some sort of stategy to break the US as a nation,

It’s to help struggling Americans keep their homes.

 

[Stewie]

It’s to help struggling Americans keep their homes.

Like Nadeemp told me once, it’s fifth gen warfare soldiers you are talking to. There is no solution to this. Just give up and let them share their lies. Lol

 

[Technics 1210]

It’s to help struggling Americans keep their homes.

Yet Biden's policy is to prioritise struggling non whites, by his own admission on his Twitter feed.

 

[Markhor]

I can’t believe I came onto a Pakistani cricket site and read such an informed comment. Well done. The dems and the left are pure evil. It’s far bigger than Trump they want a one party system, hard to see another republican getting it again at least for a very long time.

The election was stolen 100% America is no longer free speech.

And I can't believe we have such ignoramuses on a Pakistan cricket forum like yourself.

Dozens of court cases thrown out. Zero proof of rigging. Yet you people still cry about non-existent fraud. Sounds like Nawaz Sharif supporters' rhetoric.

Ironic given right wingers love to trot out "facts don't care about your feelings."

Anyway I'm loving the new year. Trifecta secured, big COVID relief package proposed and Trump in the ashtray of history where he belongs.

 

[Stewie]

Trump supporters (Americans or not) once they realize the election was won fair and square, should simply accept the mandate of the people. The election was fair. If there was evidence it was stolen, the courts would have ordered an inquiry. There was never any fishy stuff except what the trump media was peddling .. lies .. just like they have been since he won the Republican primary (and even before)

Now they talk about free speech. Free speech comes with certain responsibilities.. do not incite violence against your own using a glaze inflammatory premise.

Same Pakistanis here complaining about trump getting muzzles are those who cry foul when certain media outlets insult our holy Prophet. Why is that wrong and Trump inciting violence on false premise.. causing deaths ok?

The double standards are just too much to bear!

 

[Pakpak]

Trump supporters (Americans or not) once they realize the election was won fair and square, should simply accept the mandate of the people. The election was fair. If there was evidence it was stolen, the courts would have ordered an inquiry. There was never any fishy stuff except what the trump media was peddling .. lies .. just like they have been since he won the Republican primary (and even before)

Now they talk about free speech. Free speech comes with certain responsibilities.. do not incite violence against your own using a glaze inflammatory premise.

Same Pakistanis here complaining about trump getting muzzles are those who cry foul when certain media outlets insult our holy Prophet. Why is that wrong and Trump inciting violence on false premise.. causing deaths ok?

The double standards are just too much to bear!

Deep down they MUST know elections were fair. The US while having some nonsense in its system is nowhere near some third world states where elections are so brazenly rigged. To pull off such a rigging you'd have to buy off too many people and in a place like the West it's very difficult to achieve especially when a lot of pre election polls predicted the orange duffers defeat.

 

[Stewie]

Deep down they MUST know elections were fair. The US while having some nonsense in its system is nowhere near some third world states where elections are so brazenly rigged. To pull off such a rigging you'd have to buy off too many people and in a place like the West it's very difficult to achieve especially when a lot of pre election polls predicted the orange duffers defeat.

Trump media lies with such straight face that it’s hard to not believe them if you only listen to them say in and day out. Lies such as the voting machines were hacked (they had no internet access) by installing algorithms that added more votes for Biden if trump was ahead. That dominion machines are owned by Soros or Hillary, that the company that owns them is Venezuelan. It got so far that the company threatened to sue Fox News and newsmax tv. And they were forced to issue apologies. But the damage is done. There are millions who believe that crap.

Then all the conspiracy theory nuts who kept claiming votes were switched. One of the ladies was invited to a hearing.. and people were laughing at how she spoke without any proof whatsoever to back her.. it was all hear say.

That’s the problem. Trump supporters have been programmed to believe everything non RW media says is a lie. And trump himself is the leader in spreading this perception. They truly believe election was stolen.

 

[Stewie]

https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/jan/16/us-capitol-rioters-donald-trump-pardons

Jenna Ryan, a Texas real estate broker who took a private jet to Washington to join the attack on the US Capitol, has pleaded with Donald Trump to pardon her after she was arrested by federal authorities.
After surrendering to the FBI on Friday, Ryan said: “We all deserve a pardon.”
“I’m facing a prison sentence,” she told CBS11 at her home. “I think I do not deserve that.”
Acting US defense secretary Christopher Miller says he 'can't wait' to leave his job
Turning to look into the camera, she said: “I would ask the president of the United States to give me a pardon.”
On Wednesday, Trump was impeached for inciting the attack on 6 January that left five people dead, including a police officer, and sent lawmakers fleeing for their lives.

Ryan said she had been “displaying my patriotism”, adding: “I listen to my president who told me to go to the Capitol.”
Ryan left a trove of information online. Court papers show she posted a picture of herself taking a private jet to Washington DC the day before the riot, subsequently posing on the steps of the Capitol and beside a window smashed as the pro-Trump mob broke in.
“We’re gonna go down and storm the Capitol,” Ryan said in a video posted to Facebook. “They’re down there right now and that’s why we came and so that’s what we are going to do. So wish me luck.”
During a live Facebook video at the scene of the incursion, Ryan stated: “We are going to ****ing go in here. Life or death, it doesn’t matter. Here we go.”

She climbed the steps of the Capitol, then promoted her real estate business to camera: “Y’all know who to hire for your realtor. Jenna Ryan for your realtor.”
Later, Ryan posted on Twitter: “We just stormed the Capital [sic]. It was one of the best days of my life.”
Trump has largely used the presidential pardon power to benefit political allies. Ryan is the latest person to request a pardon over the Capitol attack.
A lawyer for Jacob Chansley, an Arizona man who wore horns, animal skin and face paint while carrying a spear and entering the Senate chamber, said Trump should do the “honourable thing and pardon those of his peaceful followers who accepted the president’s invitation”.

 

[Bigboii]

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/17/us/politics/trump-pardons.html
"The president's allies have collected tens of thousands of dollars — and potentially much more — from people seeking"
pardons .


Prospect of Pardons in Final Days Fuels Market to Buy Access to Trump

 

[The Viper]

Donald Trump needs the same level of affirmation as a toddler - but prosecuting him would only give him the attention he craves, says former FBI chief James Comey.

Mr Comey, who was controversially fired by the president in 2017, told Sky News launching a criminal case could lead to several more years of the "Donald Trump show".

He said it could overshadow efforts by Joe Biden to unite America and is "probably what [Trump] would want the most".

"I have never seen an adult with a greater hunger for affirmation than Donald Trump," he told Sky News.

"I've seen it in two-year-olds and three-year-olds. Affirmation is like air, he needs it constantly.

"I'd like to see some of the lights go out and he can stand on the front lawn at Mar-a-Lago and shout at cars in his bathroom and none of us will hear it."

As president, Mr Trump is "constitutionally immune" from prosecution - but that ends in days, raising the possibility he could in future be charged if crimes were committed before or during his term.

Mr Comey agrees, though, with this week's historic second impeachment of the president.

"I don't think that anybody can disagree, there has to be the letter 'i' tattooed on him again, and ideally I'd like to see him convicted by the US Senate and barred from ever holding public office again," said Mr Comey.

The 60-year-old was fired by the president while the FBI was investigating Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election - and is now a vociferous critic of Mr Trump.

He said the outgoing president was "the dictionary definition of a demagogue", who "aimed not just to lie to people but really to destroy the notion that the truth exists".

"There's a menace to him in private that you don't pick up in public," added Mr Comey.

"But I have felt it sitting close to him, that constantly reminded me of a mob boss because I've known mob bosses and helped put them in jail.

"That menace coupled with that hunger for affirmation is a really dangerous recipe."

Mr Trump has just a few days left before Joe Biden's inauguration on Wednesday - but it has not stopped politicians voting to impeach him on charges of inciting the deadly riots at the US Capitol.

The storming of the building - the heart of US democracy - on 6 January caused widespread shocked America, with Trump supporters running amok and five people left dead.

Mr Comey told Sky News the danger remains and that he is worried about the potential threat from "armed, disturbed people" on inauguration day.

Many Trump supporters believe his unsubstantiated claims of fraud in November's election and the FBI has identified more than 200 people threatening violence in "concerning online chatter".

Mr Comey said the danger had "to be taken very, very seriously", and that people involved in the previous chaos must be dealt with "swiftly and severely".

"I'm worried because there are armed, disturbed people who are in this state of mind where they believe their country is being taken from them," said Mr Comey.

"So it's a threat law enforcement in the States has to take very seriously.

"At the same time, I know that we have the capability, investigative and the tactical capability on scene, to protect these locations and so I am optimistic that the threat will be neutralised, but it has to be taken very, very seriously."

The National Guard has also been descending on Washington to guard government buildings ahead of inauguration, when officials say 21,000 will be on hand.

Police were hugely outnumbered by the Capitol rioters and have been criticised over how it easy it was for the mob to seize control.

Mr Comey told Sky News he was "sickened" by the violence and angry at the failure to defend the building, despite the obvious threat.

"I was angered by the apparent failure to defend a hill, it [the Capitol] sits on a hill with 2,000 officers assigned to it on a daily basis, the failure to defend the hill. It just mystifies and angers me.

"It is going to be important for our country to understand that failure."

He added: "9/11 we were told was a failure of imagination, we didn't anticipate the way the terrorists might come at us; this didn't require imagination.

"This was all over the internet and the group literally walked slowly down Pennsylvania Avenue towards the Capitol so it was just a failure and we need to know why at all levels so that we don't let it happen again."

Mr Comey has just released a new book, Saving Justice: Truth, Transparency, and Trust, described as a "clarion call for a return to fairness and equity in the law".

https://news.sky.com/story/donald-t...be-prosecuted-says-ex-fbi-boss-comey-12188779

 

[MenInG]

Republicans in the US Senate are asking Democrats to delay the start of former President Donald Trump's impeachment trial until February.

They argue this will give Mr Trump time to prepare a defence. He is accused of inciting insurrection after supporters of his stormed the Capitol this month.

House of Representatives' Democrats are ready to hand the charge to the Senate.

Mr Trump flew to Florida as his term ended on Wednesday, skipping his successor Joe Biden's inauguration.

On 6 January, the then president told protesters near the White House to "peacefully and patriotically" make their voices heard as they prepared to march towards the US Capitol building. He also told them to "fight like hell".

The demonstration turned ugly as a mob forced its way into the congressional complex where lawmakers were certifying Mr Biden's election victory.

Four protesters and a Capitol Police officer died in the mayhem.

A week later, Mr Trump became the first US president to be impeached twice. His trial in the Senate will be the only one ever to have taken place after a president has left office.

Impeachment: The basics

What is impeachment? Impeachment is when a sitting president is charged with crimes. In this case, former President Trump is accused of having incited insurrection
What has already happened? The House of Representatives voted to impeach Mr Trump for a second time on 13 January, shifting the process to the Senate for a trial - but that trial could not be carried out before he left office on 20 January

So what does it mean? A trial can still happen although Mr Trump's term has ended, and senators can vote to bar him from holding public office again

What are Republicans asking for?

On a call to his fellow Republican senators on Thursday, Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell said he had asked House Democrats to hold off sending the single impeachment article to the Senate until 28 January - a move which would kick-start the trial's first phase.

Under this timetable, Mr Trump would then have two weeks - until 11 February - to submit his pre-trial defence. Arguments would be expected to begin in mid-February.

Republicans, who as of Wednesday no longer control the Senate, need the new Democratic majority leader, Chuck Schumer, to agree to the idea.

Mr McConnell said in a statement: "Senate Republicans are strongly united behind the principle that the institution of the Senate, the office of the presidency, and former President Trump himself all deserve a full and fair process that respects his rights and the serious factual, legal, and constitutional questions at stake."

Senator John Cornyn of Texas told Reuters news agency that he and fellow Republicans had been discussing the need to allow Mr Trump "due process".

Ten Republicans sided with House Democrats in impeaching the outgoing president on 14 January.

Even though Democrats now narrowly control the Senate, they would need the support of at least 17 Republicans in order to convict Mr Trump, because a two-thirds vote is required.

A handful of Senate Republicans have indicated they are open to conviction, but most have either cast doubt on the legality of trying a president after he has left office, or said the process would be too divisive.

Will Democrats go along with this schedule?
Mr Schumer's office has not yet released a statement on Mr McConnell's proposal.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi declined to answer journalists' questions on Thursday about when she would submit the charge.

But she said Mr Trump did not deserve a "get out of jail card" just because he had left office.

Senator Chris ***** said fellow Democrats might be receptive to a delay in the impeachment trial if Republicans helped push through Mr Biden's cabinet nominees.

"If not," the Delaware senator told CNN, "you'll quickly find Democrats frustrated and insisting that we move ahead with the accountability that could be delivered by an impeachment trial."



BBC

 

[MenInG]

The impeachment trial of former president Donald Trump will be triggered next week when articles of impeachment are sent to the US Senate by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

It means that the Senate, the upper house of US law-making, can launch formal proceedings against Mr Trump on a charge of insurrection over the Capitol riots earlier in the month.

 

[The Viper]

Impeachment: House lays out case against Trump

Donald Trump must be convicted because he is "personally responsible" for the riot at the US Capitol, House Democrats have said.

They detail the former president's "incitement of insurrection against the republic he swore to protect" in a pre-trial brief released Tuesday.

It calls for him to be disqualified from ever running for office again.

Mr Trump's legal team will argue the impeachment article is in "violation" of the US Constitution.

What else did the House say?
House impeachment managers said the former president's repeated refusal to concede the election to Joe Biden encouraged the riot.

Prior to the armed insurrection, thousands of Trump supporters gathered at a "Save America" rally near the White House and listened to Mr Trump, who urged them to "fight like hell" because "we won [the election] by a landslide".

Mr Trump's "statements turned his 'wild' rally on January 6 into a powder keg waiting to blow", the brief says.

Impeachment managers plan to use Mr Trump's own words and video footage of the riot to say that "the furious crowd" was "primed (and prepared) for violence if he lit a spark".

"The evidence is clear. When other attempts to overturn the presidential election failed, former President Trump incited an attack on the Capitol," it reads.

They argue that, although Mr Trump is no longer in office, the Senate has to act because "a president must answer comprehensively for his conduct in office from his first day in office through his last".

"This is not a routine corruption charge," they wrote. "Trump has committed an impeachable offense of historic proportions."

Unlike in the case of Mr Trump's first impeachment last year, Democrats have not indicated that they will call any witnesses.

What is the Trump team's defence?
In their official response to the Democrats' pre-trial brief, lawyers for Mr Trump flatly rejected next week's impeachment trial as unconstitutional and in violation of his right to free speech.

They say that, because he is now a private citizen, "the Senate of the United States lacks jurisdiction over the 45th President because he holds no public office from which he can be removed".

In a potential preview of the trial's outcome, 45 out of 50 Senate Republicans appeared to agree last week when they voted to consider stopping the trial before it even starts.

Impeachment is generally used to remove a lawmaker from office, but it has also been used in the past to convict government officials who have already left office.

In the days since the insurrection, Mr Trump did not accept any blame for the violence, claiming his remarks at the rally had been "totally appropriate".

His lawyers will reiterate that firm denial, writing in the brief that "the Article of Impeachment misconstrues protected speech and fails to meet the constitutional standard for any impeachable offense".

In an interview with the Washington Post, one attorney - David Schoen - said: "If this speech is considered incitement for insurrection, then I think any passionate political speaker is at risk."

Mr Trump's previous legal defence team bowed out last week after the former president repeatedly urged them to promote claims of election fraud, but the new team - which includes Mr Schoen - will reportedly not advance this line of argument.

What happened on 6 January again?
Thousands of Trump supporters gathered near the White House at a rally organised to challenge the election result and listened to Mr Trump speak.

In a 70-minute address, he exhorted them to march on Congress where politicians had met to certify Democrat Joe Biden's win.

The attack began after his speech ended.

Four people - three demonstrators and one police officer - died amid the violence.

https://www.bbc.com/news/amp/world-us-canada-55908173?__twitter_impression=true

 

[Firebat]

After deadly Capitol riot, Trump impeachment trial to open with fight on Constitution

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Donald Trump’s historic second impeachment trial, on a charge of inciting last month’s deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol, opens on Tuesday with a debate over the constitutionality of trying a president after he has left office.

Hundreds of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6 after a fiery speech in which the then president repeated his false claims that his Nov. 3 election defeat was the result of widespread fraud and urging them to “fight like hell (or) you’re not going to have a country anymore.”

The unprecedented scene, in which members of the mob attacked police, sent lawmakers scrambling for safety and briefly delayed Congress in formally certifying now-President Joe Biden’s victory, came after Trump spent two months challenging the election results. Five died, including a Capitol Police officer.

The Senate trial follows only the fourth impeachment of a president in U.S. history. But it is unlike all others in that Trump is the only president to have been impeached twice by the House of Representatives. He is also the only ex-president to face a Senate trial.

The trial could provide clues on the direction of the Republican Party following Trump’s tumultuous presidency. Sharp divisions have emerged between Trump loyalists and those hoping to move the party in a new direction.

Trump’s lawyers plan to open the trial on Tuesday by questioning whether the U.S. Constitution allows the Senate to hold an impeachment trial for a president after he has left office.

Most Senate Republicans have embraced that argument, which strongly suggests that Democrats will be unable to garner the two-thirds majority needed to convict in the 100-member Senate. Democrats and many legal scholars reject the Republicans’ constitutional interpretation.

Senate Democrats are expected to prevail in Tuesday’s vote on the constitutionality of the trial. An effort to block the trial on those grounds was defeated 55-45 last month.

A prominent U.S. impeachment expert cited by Trump’s lawyers in a brief advancing their argument accused the team on Monday of distorting his work “quite badly.”

A group of nine House Democratic impeachment managers will prosecute the case. They have accused Trump of betraying the country and the Constitution by fomenting acts of violence after falsely claiming the presidential election had been “stolen” from him by vote fraud.

“The House did not impeach President Trump because he expressed an unpopular political opinion,” House managers wrote earlier this month. “It impeached him because he willfully incited violent insurrection against the government.”

During the trial, they will argue that in working to overturn his election loss, Trump emboldened a mob to break through Capitol security to stop congressional certification of Democrat Biden’s victory.

The House Democrats prosecuting the case face a high bar, needing the votes of at least 17 Republicans as well as all 48 Democrats and the two independents who caucus with them to secure a conviction.

Read more: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-...open-with-fight-on-constitution-idUSKBN2A91D3

 

[Stewie]

I just want this crap to be done and over with so we can move on.